News: Microelectronics
4 April 2025
SemiQ ships SiC MOSFET modules for integration into EV battery cell cyclers
SemiQ Inc of Lake Forest, CA, USA — which designs, develops and manufactures silicon carbide (SiC) power semiconductors and 150mm SiC epitaxial wafers for high-voltage applications — has begun shipping its SiC MOSFET modules for integration into cell cycling systems used by several of the world’s leading battery manufacturers.
In lithium-ion batteries, cell cyclers enable the formation of a stable solid electrolyte interphase to enable increased longevity and performance. The systems also enable battery manufacturers to perform battery degradation analysis, temperature and stress testing, and check for defects or performance issues.
The cyclers hence need to accurately charge and discharge batteries, with high switching frequencies enabling more precise control of current and voltage to avoid damage from overcharging/discharging. For this function, the MOSFETs need to withstand the thermal stress of repeated power cycling, with failure leading to test disruption and inaccurate data. Conversion efficiency is also vital in minimizing operational costs.
SemiQ is supplying its GCMX003A120S3B1-N and GCMX003A120S7B1 QSiC 1200V SiC half-bridge modules for use in 100kW cyclers (10 x 10kW cells with parallel connections).
These high-speed switching MOSFET modules are highly efficient with exceptionally low switching losses, are designed with a reliable body diode, have been tested to over 1350V, and implement a rugged design with easy mounting. Each 10kW cell will integrate 12 modules, with 120 per 100kW per cycler.
“Reports show that the electrification of transportation is among the most important steps that can be taken to reach net-zero. For this, the evaluation of battery performance, durability and efficiency plays a vital role in enabling the development of longer-range, longer-life EV batteries,” says president Dr Timothy Han. “We’re delighted to be working with one of the world’s leading cell cyclers, and this partnership is testament to the ruggedness and efficiency of our SiC technology.”
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